This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for South-Central Texas.. .DAY ONE…Today And Tonight. A Heat Advisory is in effect this afternoon for locations along and east of the I35 corridor with heat index values of 108 to 112 degrees expected in this area. .DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN…Sunday through Friday. Maximum heat index values of 108 to 112 degrees are forecast each afternoon for portions of the Coastal Plains, I-35 Corridor, and Rio Grande Plains through the next week. There remains a potential for additional Heat Advisories for parts of those areas each afternoon through next week.
Weather.gov shows that temperatures inside a car will reach 100° in 25 minutes. Cracking a window helps a little, but even with a cracked window, in 90° the car interior can reach a dangerous 110° in 10 minutes and reach over 130° in under 50 minutes.
How much water should you drink when outside in the heat? It varies by body weight, but there are some general guidelines. The CDC recommends that when working in the heat, people drink about one quart of water per hour. The US Army utilizes a work/rest and water intake chart that shows varying recommendations by heat category. Similar to the CDC, the chart recommends that while doing easy work on a day with extreme heat (above 90°), 1 quart per hour is recommended. This leaves us with at least 2 gallons of water per day per individual.
Austin regularly designates certain libraries and rec centers as cooling centers throughout the summer. The map can be found here.
Cool showers can help lower body temperature quickly.
Loose, lightweight clothing helps keep the body ventilated and cool.
Ovens can continue to emit extra heat hours after use.
Wearing a hat can help avoid moisture loss and also share the face and hear, where heat can be lost.
Elderly individuals, children, and those with chronic illnesses are particularly susceptible to the effects of heat and may suffer from delayed health issues like dehydration or heat exhaustion. Ensure those affected by heat-related illnesses receive proper medical care. This might include hydration therapy, treatment for heatstroke, or regular health check-ups in the days following the heat wave.
Using a big fan in your attic can help push out the hot air and cool down your house.